Be On Guard

Text: Matthew 6:19-24

In the first 18 verses of Matthew 6 we discover a warning against hypocrisy in our giving, in our fasting, and in our prayers. We must take every precaution not only to guard against hypocrisy in our duties (1-18) but we must guard against worldliness (19-24) in our devotion to Jesus Christ.

Mt 6:19-24 points out 3 vital areas to guard:

Guard your heart (19-21)

The difference between worldliness and godliness is often determined by where you invest your resources. You will either lay-up treasure in heaven or you will lay-up treasure upon the earth. Laying-up treasure in heaven guards against worldliness.

Guard your eyes (22-23)

The eye is the gate or the entrance into your life. The eye is the gate through which sin or righteousness enters. In the text we find two eyes set in contrast, the single eye and the evil eye. The eye represents the mind, the heart, or the seat of your affection. What we allow in through the gate of our heart is what you will eventually become. Keep your eyes on the Lord (Colossians 3:1-2).

Guard your love (24)

In other words protect your relationship with Jesus Christ. Love Him supremely! Love Him exclusively! When a believer loves the world it erodes a meaningful relationship with Christ (1John 2:15-16; James 4:4).

• A godly love empowers our service for Christ (Mt 6, 1Co 13).
• A godly love ensures obedience to Christ (Jn 14:15).
• A godly love establishes proper values in Christ (Mt 22:34-40).